Therapy Processes in Counseling

Course Overview

Therapy Processes in Counseling is a comprehensive course designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the various stages and techniques involved in the counseling process. The course covers essential topics such as establishing a therapeutic alliance, assessment, treatment planning, and the implementation of evidence-based interventions. Students will explore different therapeutic modalities, including managing mutual trance, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic approaches, gaining practical skills through role-playing and case studies. Emphasis is placed on ethical considerations, cultural competence, and the importance of ongoing self-reflection and supervision in professional practice. Through interactive lectures and hands-on activities, students will develop the competencies necessary to effectively support clients in their therapeutic journeys.

What you’ll get from this course:

1. Establishing a Therapeutic Alliance: Building a strong therapeutic alliance is crucial for effective counseling. This section focuses on the importance of trust and rapport between the counselor and client. Students will learn techniques for creating a safe and supportive environment, emphasizing empathy and active listening. Effective communication skills, including verbal and non-verbal techniques, will be covered to enhance interactions with clients. Additionally, the importance of setting clear boundaries and engaging clients in the therapeutic process will be discussed, ensuring a collaborative and respectful relationship.
2. Assessment: Conducting thorough assessments is a key component of the counseling process. This section covers the initial assessment phase, where students will learn to gather comprehensive information about the client using various tools and techniques. Ongoing assessment techniques will be discussed to monitor client progress and adjust interventions as needed. Cultural considerations will be highlighted to ensure assessments are conducted with sensitivity to individual differences and backgrounds.
3. Treatment Planning: Developing effective treatment plans is essential for guiding the counseling process. This section focuses on creating clear and achievable treatment goals in collaboration with the client. Students will learn to set SMART goals and select appropriate evidence-based interventions tailored to the client’s needs. The steps involved in creating a comprehensive treatment plan will be outlined, including goal setting, intervention selection, and expected outcomes. The importance of regularly reviewing and adjusting treatment plans based on client progress will also be emphasized to ensure ongoing effectiveness.
4. Implementation of Evidence-Based Interventions: Applying evidence-based interventions is critical for achieving positive outcomes in counseling. This section provides an overview of various therapeutic modalities, including self-hypnosis training, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), somatic therapy, and humanistic approaches. Students will learn specific techniques from each modality, such as cognitive restructuring in CBT, exploring unconscious processes in trance management, and fostering self-awareness in humanistic therapy. The benefits of integrating multiple approaches to tailor interventions to the client’s unique needs will be discussed, enhancing the overall effectiveness of therapy.
5. Ethical Considerations and Professional Development: Maintaining ethical standards and pursuing professional development are vital for effective counseling practice. This section covers the ethical principles that guide counseling, including confidentiality, informed consent, and professional integrity. The importance of cultural competence in understanding and respecting client diversity will be emphasized. Students will learn the value of ongoing self-reflection and supervision in their professional growth, as well as the importance of continuing education to stay updated with the latest research and developments in the field. This comprehensive approach ensures that counselors are well-equipped to provide high-quality care to their clients.

Course Content

Establishing a Therapeutic Alliance

1. Building Trust
2. Communication Skills
3. Setting Boundaries
4. Client Engagement

Assessment

5. Initial Assessment
6. Diagnostic Tools
7. Ongoing Assessment
8. Cultural Considerations

Treatment Planning

9. Developing Treatment Goals
10. Selecting Interventions
11. Creating a Treatment Plan
12. Reviewing and Adjusting Plans

Implementation of Evidence-Based Interventions

13. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
14. Psychodynamic Therapy
15. Humanistic Approaches
16. Integrative Approaches

Ethical Considerations and Professional Development

17. Ethical Principles
18. Cultural Competence
19. Self-Reflection and Supervision

Course Instructor

ChrŸs Tei

ChrŸs Tei is a passionate educator who provides comprehensive training for people who have an interest in growing wellness in their families, communities, and themselves. She was a co-founder of the Tau Wellness Co-op in 2014 and has brought together into one integrated approach the skills of therapeutic touch, therapeutic arts, and therapeutic trance. ChrŸs is a steadfast advocate for the gender/neuro diverse community and the grateful guest of the T’sou-ke First Nation for over 40 years.
As Tau we are guests everywhere forever and thank our many hosts.
We are one people amongst many nations
Our commonality is our diversity
And the ancestors WE share
May their voices lead us in our work
And our touch always heal